Cartilaginous Metabolomics Reveals the Biochemical-Niche Fate Control of Bone Marrow-Derived Stem Cells

Abstract

Joint disorders have become a global health issue with the growth of the aging population. Screening small active molecules targeting chondrogenic differentiation of bone marrow-derived stem cells (BMSCs) is of urgency. In this study, microfracture was employed to create a regenerative niche in rabbits (n = 9). Cartilage samples were collected four weeks post-surgery. Microfracture-caused morphological (n = 3) and metabolic (n = 6) changes were detected. Non-targeted metabolomic analysis revealed that there were 96 differentially expressed metabolites (DEMs) enriched in 70 pathways involved in anti-inflammation, lipid metabolism, signaling transduction, etc. Among the metabolites, docosapentaenoic acid 22n-3 (DPA) and ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) functionally facilitated cartilage defect healing, i.e., increasing the vitality and adaptation of the BMSCs, chondrogenic differentiation, and chondrocyte functionality. Our findings firstly reveal the differences in metabolomic activities between the normal and regenerated cartilages and provide a list of endogenous biomolecules potentially involved in the biochemical-niche fate control for chondrogenic differentiation of BMSCs. Ultimately, the biomolecules may serve as anti-aging supplements for chondrocyte renewal or as drug candidates for cartilage regenerative medicine.

Combined Transcriptomics and Metabolomics Identify Regulatory Mechanisms of Porcine Vertebral Chondrocyte Development In Vitro

“…Because metabolomics detects the end-products of biological processes, the results reflect the functional state and mechanisms of a system [26]. Previous studies have employed untargeted metabolomics to screen endogenous molecules involved in chondrogenic fate determination via biochemical-ecological niche control [27]. Therefore, metabolomics is a feasible suite of techniques for identifying key cartilage development pathways and metabolites.…”

Advances in Polysaccharides for Cartilage Tissue Engineering Repair: A Review

“…In conclusion, in the early stages of cartilage damage or degeneration, conservative treatment options such as physical therapy, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and mucus supplements can be used to relieve symptoms and improve joint function. However, these approaches do not promote tissue regeneration and are not effective in the advanced stages of the disease. , …”